Nature paints spring with a blaze of colors - a metaphor for the mosaic of civilizations that has become Sicily. Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, and Normans have left samples of their civilization here at the crossroads of the Mediterranean.

We will explore them  in a relaxed fashion as we unpack only twice: once in Palermo, the capital, as we explore the western part of the island; and once in eastern Sicily at Syracuse, the magnificent Greek capital of ancient times. Dinners are included, and we will savor local delicacies as we dine with the natives in lively neighborhood restaurants.

Day 1
Board our flight from Chicago to Palermo. Dinner on board.

Day 2
Upon arrival we will drive through downtown Palermo for an orientation tour before check-in at our hotel. This afternoon  the Medieval village of Erice calls us to explore its lovely streets and gardens. Dinner included.

Day 3 
Today's sightseeing features the important sites of Palermo: the Norman Palace and Palatine Chapel; San Giovanni degli Eremiti church, and the Cathedral. After lunch in a downtown restaurant we will continue our visit to Quattro Canti, crossroads of the ancient city;  Piazza Pretoria, and Martorana church. Dinner included.

Day 4
The archaeological museum of Palermo is our destination this morning. It houses wonders from all ages of Sicilian history. This afternoon we will visit the picturesque towns of Cefal£ and Monreale, with its Cathedral and Benedictine cloister. Dinner included. 

Day 5
Sicily is famous for its Greek temples. Beautiful landscapes and majestic architecture will delight us as we visit the Doric Temple and the theatre at Segesta, then the monumental temples of Selinute. Dinner included.

Day 6 
En route to Syracuse we will stop at Agrigento to visit the archaeological museum. After lunch we will see the famous Valley of the Temples: the Temples of Herakles, Hera, Castor and Polydeuces, and the Temple of Concord. Dinner included.

Day 7 
Today is free.  An optional treat would be to follow Odysseus' trail across the straits of Scylla and Charybdis. There we will visit the National Museum at Reggio to see the famous 5th century BC bronzes of Riace.  Dinner included.

Day 8 
Syracuse was the Greek capital of ancient Sicily, and it still retains much of its past charm. After  visiting the beautiful archaeological museum, we will explore the well preserved ancient sites: temple of Athena;  Arethusa fountain; temple of Apollo; the archaeological park of Neapolis; on to Epipolae and the Castello Eurialo. Dinner included.
 

Day 9 
Taormina, located on the sea with Mt. Etna towering in the background, is one of the most striking cities in the Mediterranean. Today we will enjoy a walking tour of the town including Palazzo Corvaja and the Greek Amphitheatre. Dinner included. 

Day 10 
After breakfast our hosts will drive us to Catania airport for our flight home.

INCLUDED

• Round trip air from Chicago
• Breakfast & dinner daily
• First Class hotels
• Expert guiding
• Admissions as mentioned

NOT INCLUDED

• Items of a personal nature
• Tips to guides & drivers